SUSTIVA is very useful in treating HIV infection in combination with other anti-HIV medications and it works by directly inhibiting the activity of reverse transcriptase and blocks the production of DNA and new viruses.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.
Take SUSTIVA without a meal to avoid certain side effects.
It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor. The best time to take this medicine is before going to bed.
Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

SUSTIVA falls under reverse transcriptase inhibitors and it works by directly inhibiting the activity of reverse transcriptase and blocks the production of DNA and new viruses.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.
Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store SUSTIVA at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F(15-30 degrees C). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using SUSTIVA if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like allergies, mental disorders, liver disease (such as hepatitis).
Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.
SUSTIVA may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using SUSTIVA. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).
Doctors may prescribe certain laboratory tests to determine how you have responded to treatment and to gauge the severity of the side effects of SUSTIVA. Please Keep all lab appointments and do not miss any tests.
Please inform your lab technician or surgeon that you are taking SUSTIVA before you undergo any emergency surgical procedure including dental operations.
Avoid being pregnant while using this drug. Use of this drug during pregnancy is restricted.
If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using SUSTIVA to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.
If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using SUSTIVA as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.